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Yumi Matsutoya’s Tearjerkers: Best Cry-Inducing and Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Yumi Matsutoya’s Tearjerkers: Best Cry-Inducing and Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
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Since her debut as Yumi Arai in 1972, Yumi Matsutoya has continued to captivate many people.

This time, we’ve put together a ranking of her songs that make you cry—tearjerkers, sob-inducing tracks, and popular favorites.

Her vibrato-free singing voice reaches the heart all the more directly.

Yumi Matsutoya’s Tearjerkers: Best Cry-Inducing and Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi1rank/position

A gem of a mid-tempo ballad by Yumi Matsutoya, whose lyrical melody heralds the arrival of spring.

The lyrics, evoking feelings for a cherished person who has been lost, quietly seep into the listener’s heart.

Released in October 1994 as the theme song for an NHK morning drama series, the song topped the Oricon charts and became a million-seller.

It was also featured in commercials for Suntory’s BOSS Rainbow Mountain Blend and All Nippon Airways, winning love across a wide audience.

Brimming with hope, it’s a song that stays close to your heart during life’s milestones—graduations, new beginnings, and other seasonal turning points.

The Refrain Is ScreamingMatsutōya Yumi2rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – The Refrain Is Shouting
The Refrain Is ScreamingMatsutōya Yumi

A signature song by singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya that sings of the pain of heartbreak and lingering regret.

Included on the album “Delight Sight Light KISS,” released in November 1988, it became widely loved beyond Yuming’s core fans, even topping the cable broadcasting charts.

The lyrics, with their memorable, repeated questions, vividly capture the emptiness and remorse that follow a breakup.

Emotions depicted from both male and female perspectives give the song a universal theme that resonates with many.

It’s a moving classic recommended for anyone who has experienced a parting or is struggling with a relationship with someone important.

Graduation PhotoMatsutōya Yumi3rank/position

Graduation Photo – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya) (Full)
Graduation PhotoMatsutōya Yumi

This song is from the time when Yumi Matsutoya was active under the name Yumi Arai.

Released in 1975, it became a major hit and has continued to be listened to as a classic graduation song ever since.

It’s also a number that has been covered by many famous artists.

It stands as a monumental graduation song that floods you with the bittersweetness of youth, the fleeting nature of graduation, and the poignancy of days gone by.

The perspective of looking back after graduation is especially moving—simple, yet a graduation song that can bring anyone to tears.

NO SIDEMatsutōya Yumi4rank/position

At the Waseda–Meiji rugby match, Yuming gave a passionate performance of “No Side”!!! (2013.12.1)
NO SIDEMatsutōya Yumi

It’s a song released in 1984.

It’s said to be themed around a rugby match, and the lyrics that evoke the end of the game are moving.

The warm vocals really resonate in the heart.

It’s a gentle masterpiece that stays close to the listener and feels like it’s cheering you on.

I want to protect youMatsutōya Yumi5rank/position

Mamotte Agetai (Yumi Matsutoya) – Covered by Ruth
I want to protect youMatsutōya Yumi

“Mamotte Agetai” is filled with words that match the feelings of a bride and groom who support each other no matter what.

It was released in 1981 by singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya, beloved across generations.

Recalling the day you first met the one you love, its lyrics deliver sentiments perfect for a wedding overflowing with the couple’s happiness.

Along with a heartwarming melody that resonates like a hymn, it will gently envelop the venue.

It’s a song that enhances every moment—from videos looking back on nostalgic scenes to speeches for the new days about to begin.

The last spring breakMatsutōya Yumi6rank/position

A delicately rendered masterpiece overflowing with wistfulness, capturing the season of springtime farewells.

Included on Yumi Matsutoya’s album “OLIVE,” it was released in July 1979.

The feelings of a girl on the verge of graduation are gently spun along a tender melody.

The sadness of leaving student days behind and the anxiety about a daily life that’s about to change press close to the heart.

This song was also used in the 1991 TBS drama “Rouge no Dengon.” Why not listen to it slowly while savoring the warmth of spring? It’s sure to bring back nostalgic memories.

Happy birthday!Matsutōya Yumi7rank/position

Happy Birthday / Yumi Matsutoya Cover
Happy birthday!Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya’s “Happy Birthday” is a birthday song with a gentle melody that feels comforting.

Listening to this song will surely convey your warm feelings to someone special.

The compassion and love woven into the lyrics bring joy and emotion to your loved one’s special day.

It’s also perfect for friends far away or for moments when it’s hard to put deep gratitude into words.

Subtly touching the heart, this song makes a wonderful gift for a special day.

When you want to make a birthday even more memorable, think of this song by Yumi Matsutoya.